Why Solar Panels Are More Popular Than Ever
Solar panels have quickly become one of the most popular renewable energy solutions in the UK. They’re not only the cheapest source of energy in the world, but also a vital tool in reducing reliance on fossil fuels and tackling climate change.
The cost of solar panels has fallen dramatically and with help of UK government incentives, making the switch to solar is more affordable than ever for homeowners. Despite their success, many solar panel myths are still circulating, at SolarTherm UK we’re here to set the record straight.
Myth 1: Solar Panels Are Too Expensive
Reality: The cost of solar panels has dropped by over 80%.
In the past, solar panels were seen as a luxury, only affordable for the wealthy and large companies. Today, the price of solar panels has fallen by more than 80% in the last decade. According to MCS, homeowners in the UK can now expect to pay around £5,500 to £7,500 for a typical three bedroom home installation.
While this is still a significant amount, many solar panel installations pay for themselves within 6-10 years, thanks to reduced electricity bills and the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG). On average, homeowners can save up to 70% on their electricity bills.
Myth 2: Solar Panels Only Work in Sunny Weather
Reality: Solar panels generate electricity even on cloudy or snowy days.
The UK isn’t known for its endless sunshine, but solar technology doesn’t require blazing sun or heat to work. Panels are most efficient in direct sunlight, but they still produce power in cloudy, rainy or even snowy conditions.
The South East gets on average 1500-1600 hours of sunlight per year, and get less than 5cm of snowfall. Light cloud can reduce solar output by 24% while heavy cloud can reduce the output by up to 67%. Rain and snowfall, while reducing generation, can benefit your solar panels by washing dust and debris away.
Myth 3: Solar Panels Are Hard to Maintain
Reality: Solar panels are low-maintenance and long-lasting.
Solar panels are built to last, with no moving parts and minimal upkeep required. UK weather conditions provide enough rainfall to keep your panels clean, reducing the frequency of needing professional cleans. A basic clean every few years is usually enough to keep your panels in top condition, with regular checks for dust, leaves and debris.
Avoid using high-pressure water or abrasive cleaning materials as they can damage your panels. At SolarTherm UK, we offer maintenance services to keep your system running efficiently.
Myth 4: Solar Panels Decrease Property Value
Reality: Solar panels can increase your home’s value by up to 14%.
Far from devaluing homes, solar panels can often make your home more attractive to buyers. Research shows homes with solar panels or other renewable energy can be worth 14% more than homes without. Buyers are increasingly looking for energy-efficient homes with lower running costs, making solar (and it’s reduction in electricity bills) very popular on the housing market.
Myth 5: Solar Panels Harm the Environment
Reality: Solar panels are one of the cleanest energy sources available.
Some people worry about the environmental impact of solar panel production. While manufacturing does involve energy and resources, the long-term benefits far outweigh the costs. A typical UK home with solar panels reduces its carbon footprint by almost 1 tonne of CO₂ per year, solar panels produce 14-73g of CO₂ per kWh (compared to 742g for oil). After around 3 years of use, solar panels become carbon neutral.
Around 98% of the materials that make solar panels can be recycled at the end of it’s lifespan. Glass, silicon and aluminium can all be recycled to produce new panels or used in electronics manufacturing.
Myth 6: Solar Panels Take Up Valuable Farmland
Reality: Solar farms use less than 0.1% of UK land
Contrary to popular belief, solar panels are not threatening UK farmland, in fact solar projects currently use less land than golf courses and airports across the UK.
Many solar farms are now designed as agrivoltaics systems, where crops grow beneath raised panels. Farmers can continue producing food while also generating renewable energy and receiving subsidies for rent of their land.
Myth 7: Solar Panels Are Ugly
Reality: Modern solar panels are sleek and discreet.
The bulky, blue panels from the past are gone, solar technology offers sleek black framed panels that blend better with roofs. Integrated solar panels, aligned with roof tiles can also be fitted, these are fitted within the roof, replacing traditional roof tiles. A newer option on the solar market is solar tiles, designed to look like traditional roof slates. With these options, homeowners can choose panels that suit their property without compromising on aesthetics.
Myth 8: Solar Panels Don’t Last Long
Reality: Solar panels last 30+ years with warranties up to 25 years.
Modern solar panels are built to last decades, with most solar panels lasting 30-35 years minimum, some even generating electricity efficiently for up to 40 years. Most manufacturers offer warranties of 25 years. At SolarTherm UK, we use Bovill.tech solar 410W all black panels that offer an industry leading 99-year warranty.
Solar panels are not just an investment for today, they’re a long term energy solution for your home.
Thinking About Installing Solar Panels in the South East?
At SolarTherm UK, we specialise in helping homeowners across Essex, Kent, London and the wider South East harness the power of the sun to generate their own clean, free electricity. Our expert team offers free, no obligation solar quotes, professional installation with MCS-certified installers and ongoing servicing and maintenance.
Call us today for your free no obligation quote and design, tailored to your property, usage and future energy needs. No hard sell, just honest, expert advice.
Your home. Your energy. Your future.
